Manchester is a city I called home for 4 years, and a city that holds a special place in my heart. It’s also a notoriously rainy city (which gives it it’s charm!), so I’ve put together just some of the fun and unique things to do in Manchester on a rainy day!
Table of Contents
10 things to do in Manchester…
1. Explore Manchester’s Museums
Exploring Manchesters Museums is one of the best things to do in Manchester. There’s museums for everyone in Manchester, from science, to football to history!
- Manchester Museum: Discover a range of exhibits from archaeology to natural history, including the famous T-Rex skeleton. Perfect for a rainy day, with interactive displays for all ages.
- Science and Industry Museum: Dive into Manchester’s industrial past, with fascinating displays on the city’s role in the Industrial Revolution. Don’t miss the interactive Experiment gallery, great for kids.
- People’s History Museum: Learn about the history of democracy and social change in the UK. The exhibitions are both educational and inspiring, offering a deep dive into the history of the working people.
2. Visit the Art Galleries
- Manchester Art Gallery: Home to an impressive collection of British and European art, including works by Pre-Raphaelite painters. The gallery often hosts temporary exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to see. They also have a great little cafe here!
- The Whitworth: Set in Whitworth Park, this gallery blends nature with art. The modern and contemporary art collections are exceptional, and the gallery’s café offers stunning views of the park—ideal for a rainy day retreat.
3. Catch a Show or Movie
- HOME Manchester: This arts centre is the perfect place to escape the rain, with independent films, contemporary theatre, and art exhibitions. Grab a drink at the bar or explore the bookstore for some creative inspiration.
- Royal Exchange Theatre: Experience a play in one of the UK’s most beautiful theatres. The unique in-the-round design provides an intimate experience, whether you’re watching a classic or a modern production.
- The Lowry: Based in media city, The Lowry is a brilliant place to go and see a show, or a comedian.
4. Indulge in a Cosy Café – one of the BEST things to do in Manchester on a rainy day
- Chapter One Books: A quaint café and bookstore that’s perfect for curling up with a good book and a hot drink. The peaceful atmosphere and comfortable seating make it an ideal spot to escape a rainy day.
- Takk: Inspired by Nordic coffee culture, Takk offers some of the best coffee in the city. The industrial-chic interior, combined with delicious pastries, makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Ezra and Gil: This trendy café in the Northern Quarter is a favorite among locals for its relaxed vibe and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a hearty brunch, a strong coffee, or just a cozy corner to watch the rain, Ezra and Gil offers the perfect setting. The spacious, minimalist interior is welcoming and perfect for settling in on a rainy afternoon.
5. Shop ‘Til You Drop
- The Trafford Centre: One of the largest shopping centres in the UK, The Trafford Centre offers everything from high street to luxury brands, plus a cinema, mini-golf, and plenty of dining options.
- Afflecks: An eclectic indoor market offering a mix of vintage shops, quirky boutiques, and independent stalls. Perfect for finding unique gifts or simply browsing on a rainy day. This is the place you need to go to when you come to Manchester
- The Northern Quarter: As well as being home to Afflecks, there is also a whole host of independent shops and cafes for you to explore. Whether you’re looking for record shops, vintage clothing, art shops and more, there’s something for everyone here!
6. Discover Indoor Activities
- Breakout Manchester: Test your problem-solving skills in one of the city’s escape rooms. With various themes and difficulty levels, Breakout is a fun and challenging way to spend a rainy afternoon with friends.
- Junkyard Golf Club: Enjoy a round of mini-golf with a twist. Junkyard Golf offers quirky, themed courses and a lively atmosphere, making it a perfect indoor activity for groups.
- Lane7: Go bowling in style at Lane7, which offers not just bowling but also arcade games, ping pong, and more. The trendy venue and cocktail bar add to the experience, making it a fun choice for rainy days.
7. Relax at a Spa
- The Midland Spa: Located in the historic Midland Hotel, this luxurious spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and facials. Unwind in the thermal relaxation pool or take a break in the sauna while the rain pours outside.
- Cloud 23: While not a traditional spa, Cloud 23 offers panoramic views of Manchester from the 23rd floor of the Beetham Tower. Sip on a cocktail while enjoying the city skyline, a great way to relax and enjoy the rainy weather.
8. Experience Manchester’s Indoor Markets – some of the unique things to do in Manchester
- Levenshulme Market: An indoor market offering a mix of artisan food, crafts, and vintage items. It’s a great place to explore local talent and pick up unique, handmade goods.
- Mackie Mayor: A beautifully restored market hall that’s now home to a variety of food vendors. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, tapas, or vegan delights, Mackie Mayor has something for everyone.
9. Dive into Manchester’s History
- John Rylands Library: Explore this stunning neo-Gothic library, home to rare books and manuscripts. The architecture alone is worth the visit, and the peaceful reading rooms offer a quiet retreat from the rain.
- Chetham’s Library: The oldest public library in the English-speaking world, Chetham’s Library is steeped in history. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating past and see the desk where Marx and Engels once worked.
- Manchester Cathedral: A beautiful, historic building in the heart of the city, the cathedral is perfect for exploring on a rainy day. Don’t miss the impressive stained glass windows and the serene atmosphere inside.
- The Portico Library: Tucked away on Mosley Street, The Portico Library is one of Manchester’s best-kept secrets, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Established in 1806, this independent subscription library is a stunning example of Regency-era architecture, with its elegant domed ceiling, rich mahogany bookcases, and large arched windows that flood the space with natural light, even on a rainy day. They also have a lovely little cafe in here so you can fully immerse yourself in the library!
10. Try Indoor Sports and Activities – active things to do in Manchester
Rock Over Climbing: An indoor climbing centre that offers something for everyone, from beginners to experienced climbers. The centre also has a dedicated kids’ area, making it a great option for families.
Chill Factore: Just a short drive from the city centre, Chill Factore is home to the UK’s longest indoor skiing and snowboarding slope. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a complete beginner, it’s a fantastic way to stay active on a rainy day.
Ready to have an advenutre to Manchester? Then make sure to check out our guide to 24 hours in Manchester here. And if you’re planning to have brunch, then make sure to give our brunch guide a read! And I would love to hear your Manchester recs in the comments!
